Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (Aug 28 1749 to Mar 22 1832) was a German polymath, who is widely regarded as the greatest and most influential writer in the German language. His work has had a profound and wide-ranging influence on Western literary, political and philosophical thought, from the late 18th century to the present day. A poet, playwright, novelist, scientist, statesman, theatre director and critic. His works include plays, poetry and aesthetic criticism, treatises on botany, anatomy and color.
It is fascinating to read his history, and you can see more at the above link.
